Cut Worms

“Cut Worms” Cut Worms
Bedroom pop, leaning at times toward folk rock. Pays homage to “pop essentialism” — as the artist, Max Clarke, describes it — of the late 60s and early 70s. Third album from the Brooklyn-based Clarke, who released his debut in 2018. Well-crafted tunes with catchy melodies, precise arrangements and lyrics that range from topical insights to simple love songs. A DIY feel to this project, not surprisingly because Clarke handled most of the production and mixing himself, with help from selected friends. Quite an enjoyable set for a warm summer evening. RIYL: Fruit Bats, Sofa City Sweetheart, Beach Boys, Paul Simon or Paul McCartney.
— Francis

Recommended: 3, 7, 1, 2, 9, 8, 6. No FCCs detected.

1. (4:12) Don’t Fade Out — Opens with a piano hook, then slides into a simple, breezy synth-based pop tune reminiscent of what Carole King and Gerry Goffin might have written in the 60s. ***
2. (3:57) Take It And Smile — Old-timey sound that recalls the doo wop of the 60s — with throaty, reverbed guitar. Wistful vocals rise and fall. ***
3. (3:03) Ballad Of The Texas King — A Brit pop feeling to the melody and carefree vocals. Like sunshine-y Kinks, only with a hint of Americana thanks to pedal steel guitar in the lead break. A fabulous single! ****
4. (5:37) I’ll Never Make It — A tune that takes us to school dances of old, with romantic lyrics about young love. Jerry Lee Lewis-style piano, with a nice bass line and some lightly tripping electric guitar flourishes.
5. (3:34) Is It Magic? — Slightly jazzy and bouncy, with harmonized vocals reminiscent of surf rock such as the Beach Boys or Jan and Dean.
6. (2:35) Let’s Go Out On The Town — An early Beatles sound. Very simple song construction and lyrics. Would fit on one of the Fab Four’s early albums. **
7. (3:33) Living Inside — Plinking piano. Thumping bass. Subtle strings under the plaintive vocals. ****
8. (3:36) Use Your Love! (Right Now) — A bit of a Beach Boys vibe from their later era. Staccato guitar, measured keyboards, skipping drums and sweet, high harmonies. ***
9. (4:46) Too Bad — Slow, sad, shimmery ballad with a hint of Donovan. Contemplating lost loves and missed opportunities. ***